Mississippi Native: Ally Durr
"I take pride in knowing that so many legendary musicians and creators share these roots. They have their stories, and I have mine. I am thankful to be part of this rich, vibrant history."
What does it mean to call Mississippi home? Why do people choose to leave or live in this weird, wonderful, and sometimes infuriating place? Ally Durr is a singer-songwriter who is proud to be part of Mississippi’s rich artistic legacy. For Ally, her voice as a musician is intertwined with her voice as an activist. She is part of the first cohort of MS Votes’s Arts and Activism fellows, who are using their artistry to address the pressing political issues and profound struggles of Black Southerners. Ally calls Mississippi “a family reunion, with relatives spread far and wide, yet everything remaining deeply connected.” Today she shares what keeps her active and inspired in her home state.
Where are you from?
Jackson, Mississippi
How long have you lived in Mississippi?
I’ve lived in Mississippi for twenty-nine years.
What does “home” mean to you? How does Mississippi fit into that definition?
Home means family! Simple as that. Whenever I’m taking a long road trip and I see the sign “Welcome to Mississippi,” I am happy I’ve arrived.
How have you cultivated community in Mississippi? Who are the people who have made you feel rooted here?
Through music and art, I have made most of the connections and partnerships that have enabled me to give back to the community using my talents and gifts. Additionally, I have deep family roots that stretch from the Delta to South Mississippi.
How has living in Mississippi affected your identity and your life’s path?
Living in Mississippi has instilled in me confidence, courage, and strength as a young African American woman. I come from a long and proud heritage of survivors, achievers, and overcomers who have endured pain and countless obstacles. It's a legacy I feel compelled to carry forward. That’s why I believe I was chosen to be an artist.
What is something that you’ve learned about Mississippi only by living here? In what ways has Mississippi lived up to your expectations?
Mississippi is a family reunion, with relatives spread far and wide, yet everything remaining deeply connected. Its hospitality and culture are truly unmatched. As an artist born here, I take pride in knowing that so many legendary musicians and creators share these roots. They have their stories, and I have mine. I am thankful to be part of this rich, vibrant history.
As an artist born here, I take pride in knowing that so many legendary musicians and creators share these roots. They have their stories, and I have mine. I am thankful to be part of this rich, vibrant history.
Do you ever consider moving away someday? Does a sense of duty keep you rooted here? Do you have a “tipping point”?
Yes, I do. As of now, I am grateful. I've accomplished some great things here as a creative and my plans are to be a part of the city moving forward positively. When God sees that my work is to make an impact elsewhere, I'll make that move. Therefore, I will continue to contribute to my city and state, sharing my gifts and creativity.
What do you wish the rest of the country understood about Mississippi?
Mississippi has rich history that makes the culture and dynamics of its stories, the music, the arts, and its great food so compelling. We love to have a great time. Something that will leave you speechless and wanting more people to experience the birthplace of many things.
Mississippi has rich history that makes the culture and dynamics of its stories, the music, the arts, and its great food so compelling. We love to have a great time.
What role does art play in your work and/or vision as an activist?
As a graphic designer and musical artist, I love how I can use both visual art and music to express myself and be heard. Often my work stems from the unspoken feelings within me and the environment around me. Knowing that my surroundings are suffering and seeking justice opens my heart to the belief that there is hope. Through my songs, you'll hear the message, and through my art, you'll see the vision to help us move forward and highlight the issues that continue to wound us.
What is one social or political issue in Mississippi that you think voters should be aware of?
Mississippi still has more progress to make, but voting is our right! Speaking up is powerful. We have to continue to push forward for the generations behind.
Mississippi still has more progress to make, but voting is our right!
Please shamelessly promote something that you created or that you're working on! How can we find out more about you and your work?
You can find me on Instagram at @AllyDurr, and stay updated on upcoming events through allydurrmusic.net. I’ve released four singles available on all music platforms, and I recently collaborated with Mississippi Votes as one of the fellows in the Arts and Activism fellowship program. The project is called “The Future #Up2Us.”
What a wonderful voice and stage presence you have - I loved your performance in BEAUTIFUL!